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Sustainability July 2, 2018
Go for the more sustainable choice!
Ensuring your habits don’t destroy our planet requires a major change in your lifestyle. So how do you start living a more sustainable life?
Well, the best way to help Earth’s natural resources is by choosing native plants for your garden. Gardening with native plants and flowers is more suitable for the environment because it requires fewer resources such as soil, water, material and energy. Ultimately, it lessens the impact on the environment and contributes to and supports the local ecosystem. That in mind, here are a few plants to consider for all the Southern Californian’s with a green thumb.
Also known as the Mojave Pricklypoppy or its scientific name Argemone corymbosa. This is a flowering plant that is most commonly found in Cimo and Kelso, California. If you’re in a particularly dry area this flower may be perfect for your home garden, as it grows in slopes of dry places and is very similar to its desert sister plant.
Scientifically known as Hesperocallis undulata, the desert lily is also a flowering plant that thrives in sandy flat areas. It is fairly easy to maintain and does not require much water, making it an easy and beautiful pick for your garden selection.
This perennial herb, recognized as Xylorhiza tortifolia, grows in dry canyons and other dry environments. So, if you live in a dryer part of California, this flower plant that requires very little water is perfect for your backyard.
The Chalk Dudleya or Dudleya pulverulenta is a native California succulent that is easily found in local nurseries. It is commonly referred to as the chalk liveforever because of its ability to thrive through many conditions, including a tendency to neglect our plants. This persistent succulent makes it a quick go to for those just beginning their home garden.
Coastal Cholla or Cylindropuntia prolifera is a succulent and shrub that mostly thrives in the South Coast region. It grows mostly in ocean bluffs or inland. It makes for the perfect succulent for your garden during the spring and summer seasons and adds a splash of color with its magenta flower.
This succulent, also known as the Euphoria misera, blooms throughout most of the year and can be easily purchased for your home garden. It is often spotted in San Diego, California and thrives on coastal habitats. It’s a great choice of a succulent as the small flowers that it grows will add character to your garden.
When we think of plants and flowers to build home gardens, we often leave out grasses. However, using natural grass rather than turf grass in your garden or lawn can produce many benefits. Other than having a more well-rounded garden, using natural grass helps to improve air quality and reduce pollution, among other benefits. Additionally, grasses are great to use aesthetically around walkways and perimeters of your garden. Here are some grasses that are native to Southern California that you should consider.
Also known as Aristida purpurea, this grass species is often used for landscaping. It is a popular choice as it requires very little water and is easy to maintain.
Saltgrass or Distichlis spicata is another common grass that can be used for your home garden. Though this species of grass isn’t the most aesthetically pleasing, it’s a great fit for simple looks, within pathways, or simply for your lawn.
This grass species is one that can add a lot of character to your home garden. Indian ricegrass or Stipa hymenoides is native to many regions of California and is typically found in dry, sandy places.
Now that you have more knowledge about a few native plants to consider, you can get started on living a more sustainable and environmentally friendly lifestyle.
